FHSD Students Raise Record Amount for American Heart Association

Jumping rope, playing dodge ball, and shooting hoops may seem like playtime to some, but for students in FHSD, it’s a matter of heart. During the 2016-17 school year, FHSD elementary and middle schools collected a record total $109,011.48 for the American Heart Association (AHA) through Jump Rope for Heart, Hoops for Heart, and Dodge for Heart. Only four other school districts in Missouri raised more money for AHA during the 2016-17 school year.

Donations benefit institutions such as St. Louis University and Washington University – School of Medicine, and go directly towards research, treatments, and education. Fairmount Elementary raised a grand total of $16,349.49, the highest amount in the District. In return, the school earned vouchers for playground and P.E. equipment and was able to purchase springboards for gymnastics, stepping-stones, Chinese jump ropes, a timer, stomp and catch boards, and more.

Because of Fairmount’s success, Physical Education teacher Kelly Gravlin was presented with the “Mission Impact Award.” This award recognizes volunteers and coordinators that have gone above and beyond in service of AHA’s mission. Five people in the St. Louis Metro area received the award, and Gravlin is the only one from St. Charles County. Gravlin was also recognized as the Rookie of the Year for the St. Louis/St. Charles Metro area. “Being recognized as the Rookie of the Year is such an honor,” said Gravlin. “I have had several relatives that passed away at a young age due to heart failure, so being able to help raise money for the American Heart Association in their honor has been the biggest reward!” said Gravlin.

Heart disease and stroke are the number one and number five causes of death, but are both preventable. Learning about smart life choices and good heart health at the elementary level are lessons that will stick with students throughout their lives. “Through Jump Rope for Heart, the students were able to learn the importance of exercise, saying no to drugs, eating healthy, and maybe most importantly, the thrill you get when helping others,” said Gravlin.

AHA Youth Marketing Director Barb Reyering says the program encourages healthy choices. “The American Heart Association has proven that if an elementary or middle school child begins to live a heart healthy life by exercising, making good food choices, and not smoking, that they can potentially extend their life by as long as five years.”